19 Best Outdoor Clothing Brands on the Market

From Arc’teryx to Cotopaxi, our top outdoor clothing brands all get one thing right: they make versatile apparel that will keep you comfortable in the outdoors.

If there’s one thing every traveler should have, it’s high quality gear from one of the best outdoor clothing brands on the market.

When I think about the top outdoor clothing companies, I look to see if they have three things: comfort, durability, and style.

The last of these often tend to be the hardest to find. There’s no point in having a winter jacket that lasts a lifetime if it looks terrible. Fortunately, there is plenty of gear out there that still looks good, even as you take on the great outdoors.

As a heads up for first-time buyers: outdoor clothing can get pricey. The first time I bought a heavy duty down jacket I almost had a heart attack. But, that winter coat has lasted me four years so far and helped me brave the winds of Patagonia.

Outdoor clothing is expensive but well worth the investment. I’m a strong believer in buying gear for life—just as long as you get the right travel gear.

Here are some of my favorite outdoor apparel brands to help get you started:

  • Our Top Picks
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand Overall: Arc’teryx
  • Most Affordable Outdoor Clothing Brand: Marmot
  • Most Eco-Friendly Outdoor Clothing Brand: Cotopaxi
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Pants: KÜHL
  • Best Outdoor Equipment: Kathmandu
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Down Jackets: Patagonia
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Hiking Boots: Foresake Co.
  • Best Outdoor Brand for Gloves: Give'r
  • Best Outdoor Brand for Climbing Gear: Black Diamond
  • Best Brand for Outdoor Equipment: Outdoor Research
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Merino Wool: Smartwool
  • Best All-Around Outdoor Clothing Brand: Columbia
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Snow Sports: The North Face
  • Best Outdoor Brand for Hiking & Backpacking: Osprey
  • Best All-Weather Outdoor Clothing: Mammut
  • Best Clothing Brand for Outdoor Sports: Jack Wolfskin
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Winter Jackets: Berghaus
  • Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Jackets: Helly Hansen
  • Best for Everyday Jackets and Sweaters: Barbour
1

Arc’teryx: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand Overall

Arc'teryx Brand

Let’s start with one of my personal favorite outdoor clothing brands of all time. Vancouver-based Arc’teryx is one of the market’s best outdoor clothing brands, hands down. It’s not the cheapest brand on the market, but their gear will last forever (literally).

They make gear of the highest quality, and it shows. Made for hiking, rock-climbing and other technical sports, Arc’teryx gear is made for every type of adventure. Although they are known for high-quality outdoor clothing and technical apparel, they also sell a wide variety of accessories, climbing gear and backpacks.

A mainstay in my bag is the Atom LT Hoody (Mens/Womens)—an Arc’teryx classic midlayer. You can wear it alone or layer it under a heavier coat for colder days. Warm, lightweight and good-looking, this bad-boy ticks all the boxes. Another one of their most well-known pieces is the original Alpha SV Jacket—a piece that will last you, literally, for your lifetime.

2

Marmot: Most Affordable Outdoor Clothing Brand

Marmot Brand

Marmot is one of those companies that offers the golden combination of good quality and reasonable prices. In fact, they’re more affordable than other big name brands on this list. For $100, you can get an all-purpose jacket that will last you years (or even decades).

Although they produce great outdoor apparel, Marmot also specializes in outdoor gear, like winter jackets, merino wool, technical apparel, rain gear and backpacks. This is one of the few brands that has all kinds of travel gear for sale on its website, including backpacking tents of varying sizes.

Have you ever gone camping with a sub-standard tent? I have–it’s not pretty. Invest a little in one of Marmot’s quality tents and you won’t regret it next time you’re caught camping in a downpour.

3

Cotopaxi: Most Eco-Friendly Outdoor Clothing Brand

Cotopaxi Brand

Named after the famous volcano in Ecuador, Cotopaxi is a company with a social conscience.

I love these guys because they created the Cotopaxi Foundation, which funds sustainable poverty alleviation projects. 1% of their annual revenue goes towards these different organizations, so you can buy their clothing knowing you’re contributing to something good.

The outerwear on offer with Cotopaxi is on the lower end of the price scale, but the company hasn’t compromised on quality. Their colorful line of parkas and fleeces are extremely comfortable. And their hoodies and tees are produced with recycled and organic materials.

Llama fiber and goose down are staple materials among the brand’s products—these guys are good. With Cotopaxi, you can stay warm while also doing your share to help the environment.

4

KÜHL: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Pants

KÜHL Brand

Predominantly focused on mountain wear, KÜHL has made a name for itself because of its selection of pants. Most of their hiking pants are under $100, making them one of the most affordable brands. Besides pants, they also sell tops, outwear, accessories for both men and women.

Check out their website to see everything KÜHL has available. You’ll be able to narrow your search based on the fabric you want, the size you need, or even by the activity you’re planning on undertaking.

The clothes at KÜHL is invariably top quality and is probably the most stylish outerwear companies on the market at the moment. Their unique fabrics and vintage washes make it one of my favorite travel clothing brands in the outdoor clothing category.

5

Kathmandu: Best Outdoor Equipment

Kathmandu Brand

If you’re looking for a one-stop shop, Kathmandu has what you need.

Originally from New Zealand, this outdoor brand has virtually everything you could ever need for almost every type of outdoor activity. From carry-on backpacks to sleeping bags to rain covers for your luggage, Kathmandu has something for every category.

The company also sells clothing, most of which are made using merino wool. There are tons of benefits to wearing merino wool. But the biggest benefit is that it can regulate your body temperature while also staying odor resistant—a huge help for those showerless, multi-day treks!

However, Kathmandu produces more than just outdoor clothes for traveling. Their v-neck sweaters, scarves, and pullovers can also be worn lounging at home or spending a day exploring the city. Check them out online and find something to keep you warm during your next trip!

6

Patagonia: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Down Jackets

Patagonia Brand

Another one of the most popular brands is Patagonia, which distinguishes itself in this sector with its commitment to saving the environment. The brand’s new ReCircle line contains clothing made from renewable wood and recycled cotton scraps.

They also give 1% of their earnings to non-profit groups and organizations. Over the past 35 years, they’ve donated more than $89 million different grassroots environmental campaigns around the world. This means you can shop for and wear your new gear guilt-free.

They sell an array of items, including clothing, backpacks and bags, sleeping bags, jackets and more. In terms of quality, their items are high-end, but the prices remain in the midrange region. While jackets can run into the hundreds of dollars, at Patagonia you can kit yourself out reasonably well without breaking the bank.

7

Foresake Co.: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Hiking Boots

Forsake Co.

A comfy pair of hiking boots is necessary. Thankfully, the folks at Forsake Co. have designed a line of versatile footwear that can be worn practically anywhere. Unlike traditional bulky hiking boots, Forsake Co. shoes are stylish and made to fit your active lifestyle.

Strap on these rugged boots for a trek up the mountain, or slip on the moisture-wicking sneakers for a jaunt around the city. The best thing about Forsake Co. footwear is that you can wear them for almost every type of activity.

Personally, I love their Phil Mid boot. Made from leather and breathable mesh, they’ve become my new favorite all-rounder boots for winter. But in all seriousness, their impressive selection of functional footwear makes it one of my favorite clothing brands. Dry feet can be yours at last!

8

Give'r: Best Outdoor Brand for Gloves

Give'r Brand

One of the things Give’r is best known for is its hardcore, heavy-duty gloves. These bad boys can handle fire, ice, boiling water – you name it. They’re built with durable cowhide and waterproof materials, which can withstand temperatures from -40°F to 400°F.

On top of its catalog of gloves, Give’r has a decent collection of headwear, shirts, and accessories. You’ll even find unique product like waterproof dog collars and leashes, neck coozies, and stickers.

A far cry from the like of full-service brands like Patagonia, Give’r’s product line is somewhat limited. However, the clothing on offer is unique and you’re unlikely to see any duplicates while you’re on the road. Plus, you’re supporting one of the little guys, which always feels nice.

9

Black Diamond: Best Outdoor Brand for Climbing Gear

Black Diamond Brand

Black Diamond is one of my favorite outdoor clothing brands to specialize in outdoor sports equipment and accessories. They manufacture stuff for almost every type of activity imaginable! Climbing, skiing, mountain and trail trekking – Black Diamond has it all.

One of their best selling items is the spring-loaded camming device for rock climbers. However, check out their site for other accessories like helmets, harnesses, tents, and carabiners.

If you’re looking for clothing, then Black Diamond also has you covered. They sell jackets, hoodies, gloves and hats to keep you warm and cozy during your trip.

10

Outdoor Research: Best Brand for Outdoor Equipment

Outdoor Research Brand

Outdoor Research‘s mission is to provide gear that inspires people to venture outdoors. As one of the biggest outdoor brands in the United States, they sell thousands of clothing items for a wide range of activities. You’ll find jackets, ski pants, alpine gloves and everything in between.

They have also partnered with dozens of brands and non-profits to promote outdoor education and environmental stability. One of my favorite organizations they work with is #SheAdventures, a scholarship program to promote and empower strong, female athletes.

11

Smartwool: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Merino Wool

Smartwool Brand

Wool clothing can be warm, but it’s often itchy and hard to clean or take care of. But not Smartwool! This innovated company has designed a line of itch-free, moisture-wicking and shrink-resistant wool products for different types of outdoor activities.

They make base layers to keep you warm, breathable undergarments to keep odors at bay, and even socks and scarfs for winter. Prices tend to be higher than average. But trust me – they’re some of the softest and comfiest pieces of clothing you’ll ever wear!

12

Columbia: Best All-Around Outdoor Clothing Brand

Columbia Brand

Columbia is one of those outdoor brands that has just about everything you could possibly want when it comes to clothing. Whether you’re skiing, hiking or even fishing, Columbia is a brand that is guaranteed to fit you out in style.

Specializing in clothing and apparel, Columbia sells high-end jackets, pullovers, and base layers. However, they also sell backs, coolers, and other equipment for travel. Essentially, they stock everything you could ever need for your trip.

Having tried out a number of its products, I can vouch for the brand with confidence. The brand’s products are high quality with excellent durability and I wouldn’t have survived Peru’s Sacred Valley without my Columbia hiking boots. I also love their Ascender Soft Shell Jacket, which is versatile enough to wear in the spring or in the fall.

Bonus: Columbia’s products are very affordable!

13

The North Face: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Snow Sports

The Northface Brand

The North Face might be one of the most recognizable brands on this list. No doubt you’ve already seen people sporting this mainstay outerwear brand on some hiking route somewhere. Once you try a pair of pants or a jacket, you’ll see why they’re considered one of the best outdoor brands in the world.

Whether you need a rain jacket for skiing or pants for yoga, The North Face has got you covered and you won’t look like a dork wearing its gear.

Besides clothing, The North Face also specializes in luggage, backpacks, rain gear and winter jackets. Not to mention, the brand is pretty moderately priced given its excellent quality.

14

Osprey: Best Outdoor Brand for Hiking & Backpacking

Osprey Brand

You can’t talk about backpacking without mentioning one of the biggest backpack brands, Osprey.

Focusing predominantly on bags, Osprey has a huge range of backpacks for every kind of travel—like the Osprey ATMOS 65, a classic hiking backpack. They also have different bags for cycling, biking, climbing, and even diving!

Within the products section, you can shop by activity – this will help you find the exact bag you need, no matter what type of journey you’re embarking on.

In addition to backpacks, Osprey offers a range of bag-related accessories, including bag covers and toiletries packs. They also sell durable packing cubes to keep your clothing and other items organized while traveling. If you’re looking for a bag that you’ll get some serious wear out of, search no further.

15

Mammut: Best All-Weather Outdoor Clothing

Mammut Brand

Based out of snowy Switzerland, Mammut is another well-known outdoor clothing brands that specializes in outdoor gear. Their comprehensive product line ranges from winter apparel and backpacks to climbing equipment and ropes. They even sell stuff to keep you safe during an avalanche, like airbags and high-tech avalanche beacons.

However, Mammut is known for it’s durable and protective all-weather clothing. Built to keep you warm even in the harshest of conditions, their award-winning hardshell parkas and insulated jackets are made with windproof and waterproof fibers. These babies are practically built for a trip to the mountains.

Although it’s not the cheapest company on this list (jackets are between $250 and $700), you can still find a durable jacket or parka for your trip. But if you’re looking for quality, then look no further than Mammut.

I can guarantee that your jacket will last through the most rugged of adventures.

16

Jack Wolfskin: Best Clothing Brand for Outdoor Sports

Jack Wolfskin Brand

With over 700 stores across the world, German-based company Jack Wolfskin is one of the largest brands for outdoor apparel and sports equipment. They sell everything from pants and fleeces to travel packs and sleeping bags. And if you’re taking your little ones up to the mountain with you, they also have big selection of jackets, tops and footwear to purchase for kids.

Check them out online and browse through hundreds of items for everyday travel, hiking, or skiing. You can even shop through their collection of recycled pants and jackets, which are made from 100% recyclable fabrics! Now you can do your part in protecting the environment while also looking super stylish.

Best of all, Jack Wolfskin products are extremely affordable, especially compared to other clothing brands. You can get a durable parka for under $200 and a backpack for under $100.

17

Berghaus: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Winter Jackets

Berghaus Brand

Although they may be relatively new to the American market, Berghaus is one of the biggest outdoor clothing brands in the United Kingdom and Europe. Their collection of clothing and footwear is suitable for a wide range of activities, like climbing, biking, and mountaineering.

Their insulated jackets and mid layers are perfect for staying warm and cozy no matter where you are in the world. They also sell a collection of items built with Gore-Tex tech, the absolute standard in waterproof clothing. If you’re trekking through rain or snow, you won’t want to go anywhere with Gore-Tex boots or pants.

Berghaus also takes measures to ensure that its brands remain environmentally and ethically conscious. They use recycled materials and energy efficient dying processes to produce their clothing. They have also partnered with the John Muir Trust, European Outdoor Conservation Association, and Community Action Nepal to support local projects in different communities.

18

Helly Hansen: Best Outdoor Clothing Brand for Jackets

Helly Hansen Brand

Whether you’re trekking through the mountains or skiing down the slopes, Helly Hansen has you covered. Literally.

As one of the biggest brands to come out of Norway, Helly Hansen has produced outdoor equipment for almost 150 years.

Although they sell a wide range of sports gear and accessories, they specialize in outdoor apparel. Their down jackets, parkas, and rain shells are moderately priced, especially considering the high level of quality.

Helly Hansen has also designed a line of life and leisure wear, ideal for hanging around the house or hitting the beach. This is one of the few brands on the market that sells fashionable stuff like swimsuits, dresses, and underwear.

19

Barbour: Best for Everyday Jackets and Sweaters

Barbour Brand

Focusing on ready-to-wear clothing, Barbour is one of the best outdoor clothing brands for everyday jackets and sweaters. They’ve been selling high-quality garments to the UK market for over 120 years. In fact, Barbour even has royal warrant to supply the Queen of English with all her waterproof and protective clothing!

Out of all their products, Barbour is most famously known for selling waxed cotton jackets. This elegant jacket comes in a variety of colors and is guaranteed to be a timeless staple in your closet. Barbour even provides a service to re-wax, repair or alter your jacket, so you can wear it for years to come.

Outdoor Clothing Brands FAQs

What is the best brand of outdoor clothing?

The best outdoor clothing brands include Arc’teryx, Cotopaxi, and Patagonia.

What is the best brand of hiking?

Arc’teryx, Cotopaxi, and Patagonia are some of the best brands for hiking clothing.

What does gorpcore stand for?

Gorpcore refers to the trend of wearing technical outdoors clothing as casual streetwear.

Why is Patagonia so trendy?

Patagonia is trendy largely due to the image they’ve built as a high-performance meets environmentally-friendly meets luxury brand.

Is Arc'teryx worth it?

Arc’teryx clothing is expensive, but it’s worth it if you need the absolute highest performance for outdoor adventures.

Jeremy Scott Foster
About the Author

Jeremy Scott Foster

Jeremy Scott Foster is an adventure-junkie, gear expert and travel photographer based in Southern California. Previously nomadic, he’s been to ~50 countries and loves spending time outdoors. You can usually find him on the trail, on the road, jumping from bridges or hustling on his laptop working to produce the best travel and outdoors content today.
More Articles »

You might also like…

20 Best Camping Chairs of 2024
Best Camping GearNov 19, 2024

20 Best Camping Chairs of 2024

Camp chairs from brands like Helinox, GCI, and YETI range from featherweight backpacking seats to burly models with back support that will put your office chair to shame.

Read More »
Hiking Shoes vs. Boots vs. Trail Runners
HikingNov 26, 2024

Should You Buy Hiking Shoes, Hiking Boots or Trail Runners?

Rugged (but heavy) boots are the classic hiking footwear, but many people are now turning to breezy trail runners. The choice depends on your fitness and the terrain you’re tackling… oh, and your sense of style.

Read More »
15 Best Tent Brands of 2024
Best Camping GearSep 30, 2024

15 Best Tent Brands for Backpacking, Camping, Mountaineering & More

MSR is our favorite tent brand overall, but depending on what you’re looking for, one of these other brands might be a better fit.

Read More »
15 Best Merino Wool Brands of 2024
Travel GearOct 1, 2024

15 Best Merino Wool Brands That Will Keep You Warm

From Unbound Merino to Darn Tough, these top merino wool brands deliver the absolute best performance from this amazing fiber.

Read More »
10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2024
Travel GearNov 30, 2024

10 Best Backpacking Tents of 2024

Your tent is your fortress in the wilderness. The best backpacking tents shelter you from rain, wind, condensation, and bugs without weighing down your pack.

Read More »
The 16 Best Midlayers of 2024 Reviewed & Compared
Travel ClothesSep 12, 2024

The 16 Best Midlayers of 2024 Reviewed & Compared

From high-tech synthetic fills to classic fleece, the best midlayers are designed to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable in any environment.

Read More »
The 10 Best Sleeping Bag Brands on the Market Today
Travel GearSep 24, 2024

The 10 Best Sleeping Bag Brands on the Market Today

Big Agnes earned our top pick for the best sleeping bag brand, but there are some great alternatives, too.

Read More »
11 Best Rain Jackets of 2024
Travel ClothesNov 20, 2024

11 Best Rain Jackets of 2024

Not all rain jackets are created equal. Whether you need featherweight water resistance or burly four-season protection, a good rain jacket needs to be waterproof, breathable, and durable.

Read More »
24 comments
  1. No Monatne, Mountain Equipment, Rab, Paramo, Jottnar or PHD? And I saw you say you mainly serve US and UK but miss most of and the best UK brands!
    Berghaus is good and all but way too mainstream, streetwear for chavs and same with North Face.

    I like Marmot always have they make good clothing and Salomon for footwear.

    Arcteryx climbing jackets are way too boxy with long arms and I’ve had quite a few. Made for big American fatties with stupidly long arms! Ski jackets are the best fit for waterproofs, Tantalus, Rush and Sabre all top jackets and colourful/attractive too unlike the climbing jackets. If I’m spending a lot of money on a jacket, on top of the obvious which is functionality I want it to look good as well. Arcteryx are more like a fashion brand I see more people on a street wearing it or hiking in the Lake District rather than on a mountain!
    I stick to mainly British brands but Mammut reign supreme for me, the Nordwand Pro urinates all over the Alpha SV with looks and fit but both do the same thing.

    1. We primarily serve a US & UK audience and these are Scandinavian brands. While their products are available here from specialty stores, they’re not common and don’t suit our market.

  2. I think Fjallraven should be on this list based on their commitment to the environment and durability of products. They may have my favorite hiking pants on the market right now!

  3. Well.. this stuff might work in California but by no means does it cut it in Scandinavia where you encounter four seasons on a hiking trip.
    Arc’teryx to last forever, litteraly is just a plain lie…yes they make some of the best gear in the world but it won’t last longer than comparable brands and by far shorter than other…also Arc’teryx do not have the most environmental friendly business.
    If your looking for durability Fjällräven and Klättermusen is your best bet. This is products that really come close to lasting for ever.
    If your looking for a down jacket to bring on more hard hikings Rab is your best choice.
    If your looking for a thinner insulation piece on your hikes Arc’teryx is superb, their Atom and Proton is just fantastic.
    If your looking for wool pieces to seriously keep you warm nothing, and I mean nothing, beats Devold.
    If your looking for the greatest there is in softshell, Rab is where you find it.
    If your planning on climbing and walking while needing a shell jacket, Rab also have that one.
    If your looking for the most hard-wearing pant for all year use Kkättermusen Gere is what you need.
    If your looking for the most comfortable and usable pant Fjällräven Keb is the top piece.
    If you are looking for a shell pant to keep you safely dry Arc’teryx got them.
    Then finally if you’ve arrived at the destination heading to the pub, then you can put on your Arc’teryx hiking pant 🙂 it will do well.

    1. Hadn’t heard of it! Looks like it’s a British brand. I’ll check it out. Thanks for the rec!

  4. I think most of my outdoor clothing comes from Marmot, but it is great to see some opportunity for choice. Great list, I’ll definitely try to check out some of these brands.

    1. That’s a pretty damning comment, what makes you say that?. I have looked at their product and it seems fit for purpose to me. I accept it isn’t highe end mountaineering but then its no true meant to be.

  5. Hello it’s me, I am also visiting this web page daily, this web site is in fact good aand the
    visitgors are acttually sharing pleasant
    thoughts.

  6. I was delighted with the North Face when I took a nine-year old jacket for repair (the lining tapes had come lose) and they replaced it with a new one. Great service.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.